Defense Meritorious Service Medal

BACK DEVICE(s)

These devices were added in March 2017

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

These devices are included in DoD Inst 1348.33 series. Check your specific service regulations.

Example of ribbon placement (IF only "R", "C", or "V" is authorized - it is centered)

Description:

1. Authorized by Executive Order 12019
2. Awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to any active duty member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in a joint activity, distinguishes himself or herself by noncombat meritorious achievement or service. The required achievement or service, while of lesser degree than that required for award of the DSSM, nevertheless must have been accomplished with distinction.
3. As of March 2017
   The DMSM for specific achievement may be awarded with the “R” device to distinguish that the award was earned for the direct hands-on employment of a weapon system or other warfighting activities that had a direct and immediate impact on a combat operation or other military operation (i.e., outcome of an engagement or specific effects on a target), including Title 10, U.S.C., support of non-Title 10 operations, and operations authorized by an approved execute order. To be designated as such, the action must have been performed through any domain, in circumstances that did not expose the individual to hostile action;, or place him or her at significant risk of exposure to hostile action on or after January 7, 2016, under one of the following conditions:
   (a) While engaged in military operations against an enemy of the United States,
   (b) While engaged in military operations involving conflict against an opposing foreign force; or
   (c) While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in military operations with an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Background:

1. This medal was established by Executive Order 12019 on November 3, 1977, when President Carter signed the order establishing it. The Defense Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to military personnel serving with or assigned to a number of joint activities including The Secretary of Defense, Organizations of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Headquarters of Joint Commands. Other joint activities and specified commands such as Military Assistance Advisory Groups and Joint Missions; and jointly manned staffs within Allied Command Europe, Allied Command Atlantic, the NATO Military Committee, and military agencies associated with functions of the military or other joint activities as may be designated by the Secretary are also included.